GEDmatch

GEDmatch is a genealogy website that allows users to upload their raw DNA data from various direct-to-consumer DNA testing companies, such as AncestryDNA, 23andMe, MyHeritage DNA, and Family Tree DNA (FTDNA), to compare their DNA with other users in a shared database. The primary purpose of GEDmatch is to facilitate genetic genealogy research, allowing individuals to find relatives, explore their ancestral origins, and potentially break down genealogical "brick walls."

The site provides a suite of tools for analyzing DNA matches, including:

• One-to-Many: Identifies individuals in the GEDmatch database who share DNA with the user.
• One-to-One: Compares the DNA of two specific individuals within the database.
• Admixture (Heritage) Analysis: Estimates the user's ethnic or ancestral composition based on different reference populations.
• Chromosome Browser: Visually displays shared DNA segments between individuals on each chromosome.
• Triangulation: Helps identify groups of individuals who likely share a common ancestor based on shared DNA segments.

GEDmatch is a third-party service, meaning it is independent of the DNA testing companies. This allows users who have tested with different companies to compare their results in a single platform. It is particularly valuable for genealogists who have tested with multiple companies or who are seeking to connect with relatives who have tested with different providers.

In 2019, GEDmatch was acquired by Verogen, a company specializing in forensic genomics. This acquisition raised concerns regarding privacy and the potential use of GEDmatch data by law enforcement. While GEDmatch provides options for users to opt-in or opt-out of law enforcement matching, the acquisition highlighted the importance of understanding the terms of service and privacy policies of DNA testing and matching services. Following the Verogen acquisition, GEDmatch was later acquired by current owners, VERAFILES, in 2020.

It is important to note that the accuracy of GEDmatch results, like all DNA genealogy services, depends on several factors, including the quality of the raw DNA data, the size of the database, and the algorithms used for matching and analysis. Users should interpret GEDmatch results in conjunction with traditional genealogical research methods.